The Good Life - 4/23/17

The good LIFE

APRIL 23, 2017

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| SUNDAY, APRIL 23, 2017

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THE GOOD LIFE

Eat well&learn to cook A

of Pepin’s namesake restaurant, Jacques.

While the decor is enhanced by antiques and art from the chef’s personal collection, the greatest artistry comes from the Gallic menu.

PATTI NICKELL

Tribune News Service

BOARD THE OCEANIA MARINA — If there is one thing almost as certain as death and taxes, it’s that a passenger on a cruise ship will never go hungry. I remember my first cruise where breakfast was followed by a mid-morning snack, lunch, an afternoon snack, dinner and finally, if we were still in need of sustenance, a midnight buffet.

Fast forward a number of years, and here on Oceania’s Marina, things haven’t changed much, except that now, in addition to being a consumer of food, I am also a preparer of same. While other cruisers are lounging around the pool sipping Bahama Mamas and making like extras on “The Love Boat,” 20 of us, nattily decked out in starched white aprons, are at our stations in the ship’s state-of-the-art Culinary Center.

Our two-person teams are whipping up a feast of Scaloppine Al Limone, Lemon Basil Risotto and Drunken Limoncello Cake. The class, under the direction of Executive Chef Kathryn Kelly, has been tagged — for obvious reasons — “Love of Lemons.” Kelly, who in her former life was an epidemiologist, spends nine months of the year aboard Oceania ships designing their cooking classes and accompanying culinary tours.

If you’re thinking that this is a bit food-centric even for a cruise ship, consider this: restaurants on Oceania’s six ships are under the direction of famed chef Jacques Pepin, and they are the only ones on the seven seas which have the services of two rotating French master chefs.

The Marina alone has 140 cooks onboard, providing the highest ratio of culinary professionals to passengers.

These ambitious offerings allow Oceania to proudly proclaim it has “the finest cuisine at sea.”

While I thought my scaloppini, risotto and limoncello cake turned out pretty darn well, thank you, it was the meals I enjoyed courtesy of this talented culinary team that set the bar so high an NBA center could

Culinary excursions

TNS PHOTOS

Executive chef Kathryn Kelly leads onboard cooking classes during Oceania Marina’s cruise to Key West, Belize, Roatan and Mexico. INSET: The French restaurant Jacques is named for famed chef Jacques Pepin who oversees restaurants on the line’s six ships. easily limbo under it.

In addition to the usual formal dining room (the Grand Dining Room on the Marina) and the more casual offerings (Terrace Cafe and Waves Grill), there are four specialty restaurants — Polo Grill, Toscana, Jacques and Red Ginger (all require a reservation, so it’s best to do it when you book or immediately once you get on board).

My dining odyssey began the first night in the Polo Grill. With its dark wood furnishings and burgundy leather highbacked chairs, it is the embodiment of a traditional steakhouse. My filet mignon proved to be one of the tenderest cuts of beef I’ve ever had, and I also loved the beet root and goat cheese terrine starter.

Along with prime cuts of beef, the Polo Grill has an impressive list of Scotch whiskies, although I wished their bourbon list had been equally impressive.

Toscana, my dining destination the second night, takes one on a culinary tour of Tuscany and regions in the north of Italy. My entree, Fra Diavolo, a lobster tail broiled with herbs and spices and served over fresh Tagliolini pasta, was perfection, and the Italian wine steward chose just the right vintages to go with it. I was equally impressed with their olive oil menu, offering 13 selections, and with the custom-designed Versace china that the meal was served on.

After Italy came France — in the form

The food itself is only part of the equation on an Oceania cruise. Kelly has developed 50 culinary discovery tours designed to give passengers a deeper appreciation of the food they will be eating. Her tours range from visiting markets in Spain and Italy and a Branzino farm in Slovenia to enjoying candlelit dinners in Eze on the French Riviera.

While my itinerary, which included Key West, Belize, Roatan, Honduras and Costa Maya, Mexico, didn’t have quite as rich a culinary tradition as Europe or Asia, one tour I thoroughly enjoyed was the Honduran Farm and Ocean to Table Experience on the island of Roatan.

We began with a visit to the island’s botanical gardens, the 164-acre Blue Harbor Arboretum, which is home to a hydroponic farm supplying a variety of lettuces and herbs to the locals.

Next, we took a boat to Big French Cay (in case you’re wondering, there’s also a Little French Cay) for an al fresco cooking demonstration and lunch courtesy of Chef Samuel, whose megawatt smile and coconut shrimp were the highlight of the day.

Back on the ship, a final culinary experience was the daily afternoon tea, an extravaganza that would have done justice to the crowned heads of Europe. To the backdrop of a string quartet, we delicately sipped tea and selected from an assortment of finger sandwiches, scones, cookies and cakes.

Of course, the Marina and her sister ships of the Oceania line have all the necessary features of modern cruise ships: casino, entertainment, spa, bars, shops, and a variety of activities ranging from hotly contested daily trivia games and enrichment lectures to mah jong and ping pong, but it’s the culinary experience that sets the line apart from its competitors.

On Oceania, they espouse the philosophy put forth by renowned American food writer M.F.K. Fisher: “First we eat, and then we do everything else.”

THE GOOD LIFE

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THE GOOD LIFE

Tips for grandparents traveling with grandkids LISA IANNUCCI

Tribune News Service ‌

‌Traveling is all about making memories.

Vacations are perfect in this day and age for grandparents raising their grandchildren or who are looking for a way to bond with kids attached to their tech devices. However, it takes some planning to make sure the trip is something you’ll all enjoy.

“Traveling with your grandchildren is a wonderful experience that creates special memories,” says Nicole Loomis of Confetti Travel Company.

Nina Fogelman, director of Ancient Summit, said to include the kids in the planning of any vacation: “I am not sure why it is any different for grandparents’ travel. The basics are the basics. We have had multi-generational families and travelers who carry infants on their backs through Machu Picchu. Much is doable these days. Teens and tweens can go just about anywhere

SHUTTERSTOCK PHOTO‌

these days. We have had them visiting the Amazon, hiking the Inca Trail, kayaking on Lake Titicaca, sand-boarding on the Dunes in Ica/Paracas.”

Loomis advises grandparents to choose a location that will appeal to different age groups and offer amenities to keep everyone safe and happy.

“A cruise is a perfect choice for a multigenerational vacation because it has a lot to offer guests with different requirements,” she said. “The kids can have fun in the kids club while the adults enjoy a peaceful swim in the adult pool or perhaps a nap. The family can then get ready and enjoy dinner and a show together.”

Anthony Tucker of All Inclusive Outlet suggests when grandparents are traveling with young ones, they get familiar with family-friendly resorts.

“Although advertised as “family-friendly” resorts, many times there is a specific focus on the age group of the children they have in mind vacationing at their property,” he said. “For example, Generations Resort in Riviera Maya does a phenomenal job as one of the only true, multigenerational focused resorts. It has a very expansive wading pool, which is excellent for families traveling with younger children. As a counter to that, Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Punta Cana plans many excellent activities for teens.”

If you’re looking for something a little closer to home (and that might be especially good for the wee ones), Loomis recommends a Walt Disney World vacation.

“It’s a classic vacation spot to take the grandkids,” she said. “Stay at one of the monorail resorts, such as the Polynesian, so you can return to the room in the heat of the afternoon for a rest and swim. If you have any mobility issues, you can rent an electric scooter and have it delivered to your resort so you can navigate your way back and forth to the parks as well as around the resort.”

A word of caution if you’re traveling out of the country with the children: “If grandparents will be traveling without any parent of their grandchildren, they should carry a legal document authorizing them to travel with the children and to care for the children in medical emergencies,” said Margie Lenau of Wonderland Family Vacations. “The children will still need passports or birth certificates to travel.”

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Special Section 3 Tab

steps to traveling with pets

“ ‌W

hen summer comes around, a common favorite tradition is jumping in the car and hitting the open road for a vacation, whether it’s a weekend getaway or a longer excursion. For pet parents, that exhilarating idea isn’t always so simple.

Instead of being forced to leave your furry friend behind, follow these tips and suggestions to bring your four-legged companion along for the ride.

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Get checked out. Before loading up the car, consider a check-up with a veterinarian to ensure that your pet is physically capable of handling a road trip. Long hours in the car can be taxing on older pets that may not be used to the stress of travel.

Prepare your pet. Once you’ve made sure your pet is ready to hit the road, start out with short drives to make sure he or she is comfortable in the car. Take a trip around the neighborhood or about town to check his or her reaction and attitude.

Plan accordingly. Since not all hotels and accommodations are pet-friendly, be sure to double-check that your reservations allow furry guests.

Additionally, make sure that all of your planned activities and adventures can safely involve your pet.

Pack necessary supplies.

While you’ll likely be concerned with packing the right clothes, shoes and acces-

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sories, your four-legged companion has needs as well. Make sure to bring along proper food, water and respective bowls; toys for down time; treats for good behavior and any other necessities to help your pet feel at home.

Travel safely. Even pets that have spent ample time traveling in the past can feel more comfortable in the car while inside a cozy carrier.

It can be a good idea to bring along a breathable carrier with plenty of space to help serve as a calming presence in case travel time starts to take its toll.

Take proper ID. It’s important to always have your pet’s ID on its collar, but it can be even more important while out of town when your pet is in an unfamiliar area.

Plan for play. You’re sure to have plenty of activities planned during vacation, but keep in mind that your pet will need some time to stretch his or her legs, too. Prior to

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taking off, look for parks or other pet-friendly areas on your route to incorporate some playtime.

Stay inside the vehicle.

The iconic image of a pet-friendly road trip is a dog with his head out the window and the wind in his face — however, it’s not a safe way to travel. Make sure your pet is safely inside the vehicle at all times.

Make frequent stops. Even if you can “hold it” for lengthy periods, your pet will likely require more frequent bathroom breaks while on the road. Mapping out pet-accessible stops can help you keep your pet comfortable while still making good time.

Don’t leave your pet.

Never leave pets in locked cars. Your pet is likely to be on high-alert anyway due to the stress of traveling, so keep him or her by your side throughout the trip.

Find more pet care tips at eLivingToday.com.

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THE GOOD LIFE

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CAITLIN O’HARA PHOTOS, WASHINGTON POST

A Scottsdale Carriage Company driver gives tourists a sunset spin through Old Town Scottsdale, Ariz.

SCOTTSDALE City has way more than coyotes and cactuses STEVE KNAPP, Lockard Realty Steve, a lifelong resident, has been a real estate broker and professional manager since 1973. He uses his expertise to assist clients in real estate transactions in residential homes, commercial and investment properties, development, or property management.

Steve is managing broker of the leading residential and commercial brokerage firm and is consistently a leading buyer and seller agent. He has served on several local boards of directors in the last 25 years, and as a WaterlooCedar Falls Board of Realtors officer and director. sknapp@lockardonline.com

“Producing Successful Results” “Steve would call with regular updates and would return our calls quickly.

We called him because our son was so happy with him when he bought his home years ago.

He’s the best!” - C.D.

493-4000 Steve Knapp Managing Broker

4501 Prairie Parkway, Cedar Falls 50613

ANDREA SACHS

‘T

The Washington Post

he West’s Most Western Town” has a nice cowbell ring to it, doesn’t it?

S c o t t s d a l e ’s motto is fitting: Many of the buildings in the Arizona city are the color of leather chaps and a giant cowboy sign in Old Town greets visitors with a permanent “howdy” on his lips.

Luckily, Scottsdale boasts a second tagline, “Most Livable City,” and I quickly felt at home among the racks of vintage clothing, veg-centric dishes and Frank Lloyd Wright architecture — real and inspired. The golf-cart taxis blasting party tunes kept me rooted in civilized Scottsdale, but whenever I heard the howling coyotes, I returned to wilder times.

1. Odysea, the largest aquar-

ium in the Southwest, provides residence to 30,000 animals.

Start your visit in the bathroom, whether you need to go or not: The sinks overlook a shark tank. Guests follow the journey of a water drop, which travels through several marine environments, including rivers, shores (the habitat of African penguins and otters), oceans and reefs. The drop finally gets to sit down on a carousel ride that spins by three aqua-scapes. The finale: viewing the sharks that watched you lather up. odyseaaquarium.com 2. Learn to hitch a horse, stare down a bison and swagger in an Old West scene at the Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West, a Smithsonian affiliate that holds several exhibitions a year. The museum tells the campfire tales of the American West through paintings, sculpture, photography and

such artifacts as Meriwether Lewis’s tomahawk. One of the star collections features more than 1,400 items that detail every inch of the Western lifestyle, from the head of the cowboy to the seat of the horse. scottsdalemuseumwest.org

Musts

3. This year, the world celebrates the 150th birthday of Frank Lloyd Wright, and Taliesin West will honor the event with $1.50 tours of his winter abode on June 8. Even on noncaking days, immerse yourself in the World According to Frank on a guided visit of his office, private residence, garden room, performance spaces and drafting studio, where he designed the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum in Manhattan. And, yes, you can sit on the furniture. franklloydwright.org/taliesin-west

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4. Scottsdale’s sprawl stops at the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, a 30,000-acre swatch of the Sonoran Desert buttressed by mountains. Bike or hike along 182 miles of trails studded with the Mutt (saguaro) and Jeff (barrel) of cactuses. The Gateway Trail Loop, for instance, is a 4 1/2-mile route that peaks in popularity during the sun’s rise and fall. In the distance, listen for the Valley of the Sun Orchestra, a symphony of coyote howls and sirens. scottsdaleaz. gov/preserve

College Hill

Cedar Falls, Iowa West 23rd and College

Above: Hikers get the day started on the Gateway Loop Trail at the McDowell Sonoran Preserve. Top right: A selection of spurs at Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West. storage space and opened Super Chunk, shorthand for “a little super chunk of goodness.” The sweets shop is an imp with flavors. The Veladors add candied jalapeño and cayenne to the Cowpuncher cookie, homemade cocoa cookie crumbs and sea salt to the brownies and mesquite flour to the chocolate-chip cookies. They even update the original “super chunk” with blue cheese and mission fig. superchunk.me 7. At the Mission, you won’t get scolded for licking the wall of Himalayan salt; some patrons enjoy a pink buzz with

Make your own cocktail Cucumber Jalapeno Margaritas 4 ounces tequila 2 ounces fresh lime juice 2 ounce agave syrup (or homemade simple syrup) cucumber, sliced into ¼-inch rounds and cut into quarters jalapeno, sliced into rounds salt, for rimming glasses (optional) Combine tequila, 8 cucumber quarters and 2 jalapenos slices into a shaker and muddle until cucumber and jalapeno start to break up. Add lime juice and agave syrup and fill shaker with ice. Shake vigorously for 60 seconds. Strain liquid into an icefilled glass rimmed with salt. Makes 1.

Source: happyfooddance.com

Arts Festival

39th Annual

Eat

5. FnB co-owner Pavle Milic holds high praise for chef Charleen Badman: “She has the uncanny ability to take ugly duckling vegetables and elevate them.” Her magic green wand electrifies such dishes as hinona kabu long turnips with chimichurri and grilled spicy broccoli with tangerine aioli and pistachios. (She also prepares several meat entrees.) The restaurant has also earned accolades for its beverage program, which includes a full page of Arizona wines and beers. fnbrestaurant. com 6. It started with the chocolate-bacon caramel corn that Country Velador set out at Cowboy Ciao’s hostess station. The bags sprouted wings and flew out the door. In response to demand, the pastry chef and her husband, Sergio, took over the restaurant’s

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their tequila. If you prefer to use proper utensils, dig into the Latin American dishes, such as Peruvian clam stew and chorizo porchetta. Order the guacamole and a waiter will pull up to your table with a cart laden with small bowls and a mortar. themissionaz.com 8. Cowboy Ciao is celebrating 20 years of cooking by spotlighting some of its greatest hits: chicken-fried trout, exotic mushroom pan fry, corn-nut scallops. The menu proves that American West and Italian cuisine can ride off into the sunset together. cowboyciao.com

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Pair wines, desserts New York Honey Cheesecake

LIKE A PRO ‌When it comes to pairing wine with food, even experts agree that desserts can pose a challenge. A wide variety of flavor combinations can make it hard to find the perfect selection to serve with your sweet treat.

While there’s no exact science to wine pairing, these simple tips can help you make your selection.

SINCE 1956

To make crust: In small bowl, stir together graham cracker crumbs and butter until well blended. Press mixture evenly onto bottom and sides of greased 9-inch springform pan; set aside.

Heat oven to 350 F.

To make filling: In electric mixer bowl, combine cream cheese, honey and flour. Beat until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each. Beat in cream, lemon zest and vanilla.

Pour cream cheese mixture over crust; bake 15 minutes. Lower oven temperature to 200 F and bake 1 hour and 30 minutes longer, or until center no longer looks wet or shiny.

With oven off and door ajar, let cheesecake cool 1 hour in oven.

Remove cheesecake to rack to cool completely.

Cover and refrigerate cheesecake at least 4 hours before serving. Garnish with fruit and fresh mint. Pair with chardonnay like Joseph Carr.

Lemon flavors can sometimes be polarizing, but complement- Rich Chocolate Cake ing this dessert with an equally Red wine with chocolate citrusy wine can work wonders. seems like a no-brainer, but Try pairing with a food-friendly not all red wines are created pinot grigio or a sauvignon equal. blanc.

For a richer delicacy like this

devil’s food cake, try something like Villa Pozzi Nero D’avola, a more fruit-forward, easy-drinking red varietal.

For more tips and wine selections, visit winefix.com

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2 cups graham cracker crumbs 1/2 cup butter or margarine,

melted

4 packages (8 ounces each)

cream cheese

3/4 cup honey 1/4 cup flour 5 eggs 1/3 cup heavy cream 1 tablespoon lemon zest, grated 1 teaspoon vanilla Sweet Cheesecake A good rule: The lighter the fresh berries, for garnish dessert, the lighter the wine. fresh mint, for garnish

Avoid heavy reds for a sweeter dessert and instead pair with a crisp white like Chardonnay, such as Joseph Carr of Sonoma, Calif.

Lemon Meringue Pie

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New York-Style Honey Cheesecake‌

Honey Devil’s Food Cake with Rich Chocolate Frosting‌ 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 1 1/2 cups unsweetened cocoa

cake pans.

In large bowl, combine flour, 1 powder, divided cup cocoa powder, baking soda, 2 teaspoons baking soda baking powder and salt. Add 1 1/2 1 teaspoon baking powder cups honey, milk, oil, eggs and 2 1/2 teaspoon salt teaspoons vanilla; beat 2 minutes.

Gradually beat in water.

2 cups honey, divided 1/2 cup 2 percent low-fat milk Divide batter between pans. Bake 1/2 cup vegetable oil 25-30 minutes, or until sides pull 2 eggs away slightly from pan and tooth 3 teaspoons vanilla extract, pick inserted in center comes out divided clean. Cool 10 minutes. Turn onto 1 cup boiling water wire racks and cool completely.

1 cup heavy whipping cream To prepare frosting: In medium milk chocolate shavings, for bowl, combine remaining cocoa garnish powder, honey and vanilla, and To prepare cake: Heat oven to cream. Beat until just thick and 350 F. Grease and flour two 9-inch fluffy.

COURTESY PHOTOS

To assemble: Spread frosting evenly over sides and top of one cake layer. Place second cake layer on top. Spread remaining frosting evenly over sides and top.

Recipes courtesy of the National Honey Board

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NEW LIVING OPPORTUNITY

FOR DOWNSIZERS AND SIMPLIFIERS

MCCORMICK PHOTOS

Breakfast Monkey Bread with Sausage Top right: Baked Eggs and Sweet Potato Hash

Wow-worthy

breakfast Make-aheads, hash make prep work easy MELODY PARKER

melody.parker@wcfcourier.com ‌

‌Don’t fall back on predictable breakfast dishes when company spends the night. Step it up a few notches — all while making it easier on yourself as host or hostess.

“With a little planning and a few pantry essentials … you can serve a wow-worthy breakfast,”

said McCormick Executive Chef Kevan Vetter.

These McCormick recipes for a simple sheet pan hash, a new spin on favorite Monkey Bread and a make-ahead lemon blueberry muffin casserole will get you out of the kitchen fast, so you can enjoy your guests.

After all, breakfast is supposed to be the most important meal of the day.

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250 STATE STREET

This savory, cheesy, melt-in-your-mouth monkey bread is loaded with sausage, shredded Cheddar and the savory gravy. Pull it apart and devour.

3/4 cup milk 1 package McCormick Original Country Gravy Mix 1/4 cup melted butter 3 cans (7.5 ounces each) refrigerated buttermilk biscuits 2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese, divided 1/2 pound ground breakfast sausage, cooled and drained Preheat oven to 350 F. Mix milk, Gravy Mix and melted

butter with whisk in large bowl until well blended. Reserve 1/2 cup of the gravy mixture; set aside.

Cut biscuits into quarters. Add biscuit pieces to gravy mixture in large bowl; gently toss to coat. Stir in 1 1/2 cups of the cheese and cooked sausage until well blended. Place biscuit mixture into greased 10-cup bundt pan. Pour reserved gravy mixture over top.

Bake 35 minutes. Sprinkle with remaining 1/2 cup cheese. Bake 5 minutes longer or until cheese is melted.

Cool in pan 5 to 10 minutes. To unmold, loosen sides of monkey bread from pan with a knife. Invert, cheese side up, onto serving plate. Serve warm. Serves 12.

highlights

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THE GOOD LIFE

Baked Eggs and Sweet Potato Hash‌ Ditch the skillet and prepare hearty breakfast hash in the oven!

Our version starts with sweet potatoes, onions and peppers, ham and the kicked-up flavor of McCormick Original Taco Seasoning Mix. 1 1/2 pounds sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch

cubes (about 4 cups)

1 large red bell pepper, cut

into 1-inch chunks

1 medium red onion, cut into

1/2-inch chunks 1 tablespoon oil 1 package McCormick Taco Seasoning Mix

1 cup cubed ham 5 eggs 2 tablespoons finely chopped

fresh cilantro Preheat oven to 400 F. Toss potatoes, bell pepper, onion and oil in large bowl. Sprinkle with Seasoning Mix; toss to coat well.

Spread vegetables in single layer on large, shallow baking pan sprayed with no stick cooking spray.

Bake 25 minutes. Remove pan from oven. Stir ham into vegetables in baking pan. Bake 10 minutes longer or until potatoes are

tender. Remove pan from oven.

Break eggs evenly apart on top of the hash. Carefully, return pan to oven. Bake 5 to 10 minutes or until eggs are to desired doneness. Sprinkle with cilantro and assorted toppings, if desired.

Serves 5.

MCCORMICK PHOTO‌

Avocado Ricotta Toast with Poached Eggs‌

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This craveable recipe brings a springtime twist to avocado toast.

Blend ripe avocado with the perfect combination of ricotta cheese and garlic powder and black pepper.

Spread onto toast and top with veggies and a poached egg.

1/2 cup roughly mashed avocado 1/2 cup ricotta cheese 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon coarse ground black pepper 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice

4 (1/2-inch) slices Italian bread, toasted 1/4 cup thinly sliced radishes 2 cups spring mix salad greens 4 lemon wedges 4 poached eggs

Mix mashed avocado, ricotta cheese, garlic powder, salt, pepper and lemon juice in medium bowl.

Spread 1/4 cup avocado mixture evenly on each toast. Top with sliced radishes, spring mix, a squeeze from 1 lemon wedge, and 1 poached egg over each toast. Makes 4 servings.

Overnight Lemon Blueberry Muffin Casserole‌ Win breakfast with this tasty overnight casserole. Lemon extract adds bright flavor to the muffin-like base swirled with a rich cream cheese and studded with sweet-tart blueberries.

Streusel Topping:

1/2 cup firmly packed light

brown sugar

1/2 cup flour 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon ¼ cup (1/2 stick) cold butter,

cut into chunks

Casserole: 6 eggs 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons milk, divided

1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons

granulated sugar, divided 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 loaf French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes (about 8 cups) 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened 1 tablespoon lemon extract 2 cups blueberries, divided For streusel topping, mix brown sugar, flour and cinnamon in medium bowl. Cover. Set aside until ready to assemble in the morning.

For the casserole, mix eggs, 1 cup milk, 1/4 cup granulated sugar and cinnamon in large bowl with wire whisk until well blended. Add bread cubes; toss gently to coat. Pour evenly into 13x9-inch baking dish

sprayed with no stick cooking spray.

Mix cream cheese, remaining 2 tablespoons each milk and sugar, and lemon extract in medium bowl until well blended. Gently stir in 1 cup blueberries. Spread evenly on top of bread cubes. Top with remaining 1 cup blueberries. Cover.

Refrigerate overnight.

Preheat oven to 350 F. Remove casserole from refrigerator. Let stand 10 to 15 minutes. Meanwhile, cut butter into Streusel Topping mixture with a pastry blender or 2 knives until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Sprinkle over casserole. Bake 30 minutes or until golden brown. Let stand 5 minutes before serving. Serves 12.

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7 tips to shake up your lifestyle ‌If you’re looking for ways to bring some extra energy to your lifestyle and shake up your routine as spring rolls around, you may be surprised to find how seemingly simple changes can make a big difference.

Sometimes all you need is a little change in your daily routine or a small adjustment to jump-start a fresh take on life.

Ideas don’t have to be big to be impactful.

1. Sign up for a fitness class. When your workout regimen feels repetitive, it’s hard to stay motivated. One way to wake up your workout is to enroll in a new class, where you can learn new moves and put your muscles to work in new ways.

2. Make your down time productive. Your idle time may be minimal, so it’s all the more reason to fill those hours with productive activities that make you happy. If you’re looking to

take on a new hobby, now’s the time to commit to your newfound passion, whether it’s understanding the ins and outs of digital photography or volunteering for a cause close to your heart.

3. Improve your oral health. Maintaining your overall health includes your mouth too. An option like Colgate Total Advanced Health Mouthwash can help you take charge of your oral health. This mouthwash is the first oral care product to contain dual-layer technology that combines freshening power with germ killing ingredients— simply shake to activate and see the results in the sink. Learn more at ColgateTotal.com.

4. Invest in a quality mattress. Giving yourself a good night of sleep is one of the most important things you can do to improve your overall health.

That’s because your sleeping hours are when your body works

to repair and rejuvenate from the tolls of daily living. If your mattress is outdated or saggy, upgrade for better rest and better health.

5. Explore a new look. A fresh makeup shade or a new hairstyle can give you confidence and put you on a path toward looking as great as you feel. Changes don’t have to be bold or dramatic to make a difference. Simply switching up your eye shadow or lipstick can transform your look for an extra boost inside and out.

6. Redecorate a room in your home. Whether it’s a favorite space or a room you avoid because it needs some TLC, changing the appearance of your environment can create a place for you to feel at home, and that’s simply good for the mind and soul. Create an oasis for relaxing or a more productive work space and you’ll not only see the results, you’ll feel

good when you’re using the space, too.

7. Make more time to socialize. Breaking up your regular schedule can give you the

variety you need to unplug and enjoy the lighter side of life.

Make plans with friends for no special reason; simply enjoy the company and unwind.

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12 | Sunday, April 23, 2017

THE GOOD LIFE

Divine divas put ‘broad’ in Broadway THE WASHINGTON POST

‌ EW YORK -In the beginN ning, there was Ethel.

Merman, the legend who required no introduction or microphone.

Ethel begot icons such as Mary

Martin, Liza Minnelli and Barbra Streisand, divas known to their loyal subjects by first names only, as though they were dear friends.

In musical theater, there is nothing like a dame, a star of

great voice, astonishing presence and dazzling wattage. A diva’s acting chops match her vocal power. She masticates the scenery. She leaves a mark.

She sports her pain like pearls.

Hurt and indomitability define her, conveyed in a multi-octave, act-concluding anthem that tears down the house and obliterates all memory of everyone else on stage.

This spring, the theater is alive with the sound of divas — Bette Midler, Patti LuPone and Glenn Close — larger-than-life performers who are putting the broad back in Broadway. Like a vintage wine, it can take years to become a diva. All three actresses are in their 60s or 70s.

Midler helms the latest revival of “Hello, Dolly” — take her wraps, fellas — in previews, which was scheduled to open April 20. Her name, in second-coming type, envelops the Shubert Theatre.

The show is all about Dolly.

No diva, no Dolly. For producer Scott Rudin, betting on Bette proved a shrewd move: Advance ticket sales total more than $40 million, a $9 million jackpot occurring on the first day.

Patty LuPone and co-star Christine Ebersole, a quartet of Tonys between their manicured

paws, portray battling cosmetic titans Madame Helena Rubinstein and Miss Elizabeth Arden in “War Paint.” As Ryan Murphy’s FX drama “Feud: Bette and Joan” makes clear, the only thing more entertaining than watching one outsize, shellacked doyenne is observing two go at as if for dear life. Trailblazers and inspired business entrepreneurs Rubinstein and Arden were ardent competitors who would not utter each other’s names, let alone reportedly meet, despite their beauty empires operating blocks apart.

In “Sunset Boulevard,” threetime Tony winner Close delivers a showstopping performance in

a role she originated on Broadway 23 years ago and still owns in an otherwise lamentable show.

That’s what a diva does. She triumphs over the material. She triumphs over everything.

Close leads with her chin. She is all jaw, following in the tradition of that master of the mandible, Katharine Hepburn. Close was born to wear hats. She can rock a turban.

Men run the rest of the world.

Broadway, which attracts an audience that is two-thirds female, is a special place that doesn’t merely worship women.

It worships older women. A star can grow up. It’s the opposite of Neverland.

Paint one on — a class, that is ‌Ready to polish your skills as an artist? Check out one of these classes offered at area art centers for all ability levels.

At the Waterloo Center for the Arts: Paint the colors and flowers of spring with Dion Dior.

Each week she will guide you through different techniques.

This class is for intermediate and advanced students.

May 2 to June 6 (6 weeks) Tuesdays from 6:30 to 8:30pm

Members: $62; non-members: $75 Instructor: Dion Dior Register by: April 28 At the Hearst Center for the Arts: En Plein Air Drawing Workshop Students will learn and practice en plein air drawing techniques. All ability levels welcome.

Sundays, May 14, 21, 28 from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m.

Instructor: Steven Labadessa

Location: Rownd II Classroom and Sculpture Garden Limit: 12 students Fee: $45 ($40.50) Still Life Watercolor Workshop Learn and practice how to paint still life using watercolors.

All ability levels welcome!

Thursdays, May 18, 25, June 1 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Instructor: Steven Labadessa Location: McElroy Classroom Limit: 10 students Fee: $45 ($40.50)

THE GOOD LIFE

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SUNDAY, APRIL 23, 2017 |

13

ACTIVATE YOUR DIGITAL SUBSCRIBTION TODAY

WCFCOURIER.COM/ACTIVATE

5

steps to be your best at any age

InspIre Future GeneratIons

They say you’re only as young as you feel, and if you’re an older American, the ability to feel young a little while longer is always appealing. Having a youthful state of mind goes a long way toward accomplishing this goal, but you can’t ignore the importance of solid physical health.

To improve your physical and mental health and prove age is just a number, apply these five tips from Mayo Clinic today.

1 2 3 4 5

Find the perfect interval. If you’ve never participated in high-intensity interval training before, here’s a compelling reason to start. Researchers at the Mayo Clinic found high-intensity aerobic exercise actually reversed some cellular aspects of aging. The research also found that the exercise improved muscle proteins, enlarged muscles and increased energy levels.

The benefit of brain games. A sharp mind is every bit as important as a healthy body, and exercising your brain can be a lot of fun. Spend time learning new things on the internet, enroll in a class for that craft you’ve always wanted to master, go out with friends or sit down and play a board game. All of these activities can greatly improve your mental health. For example, a Mayo Clinic study found playing games decreased a person’s risk of mild cognitive impairment by 22 percent making this enjoyable activity healthy as well.

Supplementing your health. Health supplements should never completely replace whole food offerings, but they may offer you real health value as well. According to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, supplements may be ideal for vegans and vegetarians or those who consume less than 1,600 calories per day. People with a condition affecting the way their body absorbs nutrients and those who have had surgery on their digestive tract should also speak with their doctor about supplements that may improve their overall health.

The importance of sleep. A good night’s sleep offers health benefits at any age, but getting enough rest can be more difficult as you get older. To get a better night’s sleep, review your medications with your doctor to see if anything is impacting your rest. You should also try to limit your daytime napping (just 10 to 20 minutes per day is best) and avoid alcohol, caffeine or even water within a couple hours before bedtime.

Focus on your sexual health. This topic may not be as widely discussed as your physical or mental health, but it is no less important. Men should talk to their doctors about their lessening testosterone levels, which drop about 1 percent per year after age 30. Women may experience a similar drop in estrogen levels as well and should consult their doctor for treatment options.

Don’t be shy about discussing sexual health issues with your doctor.

You can learn more about improving your health at any age through the advice offered in Mayo Clinic on Healthy Aging, or visit http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle for more healthy lifestyle ideas.

Support the Grout Museum District with a gift in your will.

Contact the Director of Development at 319.234.6357 or cyd.mchone@gmdistrict.org

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14 | Sunday, April 23, 2017

THE GOOD LIFE

Small nest egg,

BIG DREAMS? ®

Cedar Valley’s Premier Retirement Community

Simplify Your Life!

Don’t Wait to Live Better.

NewAldaya: 319-268-0401 • Caring Transitions: 319-242-7819 www.NewAldaya.org www.CaringTransitionsofNortheastIowa.com

Tips for buying your retirement home ‌Planning for retirement means making a lot of decisions, including when you’ll stop working, how much you’ll withdraw from your savings each year, and where you’ll live. Many Americans view retirement as an opportunity to move into a house they’ll love and live in for all their golden years. In fact, 64 percent of retirees either have moved or plan to move, according to a Merrill Lynch survey.

Some retirees move to be closer to children or grandchildren, to down-size into a more manageable home, live in a warmer locale, or to secure a more luxurious home where they can easily age in place.

“The decision of where to live in retirement is important and can directly affect quality of life in your golden years,” says Geoff Lewis, President of RE/MAX, LLC. “Research by Trulia shows that in virtually all areas of the country, it makes better financial sense for retirees to buy a home, rather than rent. In fact, buying is nearly 42 percent cheaper than renting for seniors across the country.”

Lewis and the RE/MAX team offer some advice for buying your retirement home:

Have a plan

BRANDPOINT PHOTO‌

Trulia’s research shows that some of the cities most popular for retirees are also ones where buying a home can save you the most money over renting. Desirable, warm-weather locations in Florida and Arizona offer significant value, even in regions where average home prices are higher.

Make a list of what you want in a home location so you’ll have a starting point for your search.

Don’t delay

If possible, don’t wait until poor health or declining finances force you to move somewhere that’s not your ideal location.

Move while you’re still young enough to enjoy your dream retirement home.

Get professional financial advice It’s important to protect your nest egg and keep it growing throughout retirement. A professional financial planner can help you understand what size mortgage is right for you, so your dream home doesn’t strain your finances.

Ideally, you should think about where you want to live long before retirement, but it’s never too late to think about your priorities. Do you want to be close to family or health care resources? Be mindful of amenities Do you desire a home in the When choosing a location and mountains or somewhere you’ll a home, in addition to your pernever see snow again? sonal priorities, it’s important

to keep in mind accessibility to amenities important to seniors.

Community features such as good transportation, quality of roads, safe neighborhoods, and access to health care, socialization opportunities, shopping and cultural venues are all options to consider.

Focus on must-haves

Make a list of must-have features and those you would like your retirement home to have.

Share the list with your agent to help him or her focus on properties that meet your criteria. Your list of must-haves and desirables will likely be very different from the list you made when you bought your first home. Now, a single-level house with large bathrooms and a level lot may be more desirable than a two-story with lots of bedrooms and a big backyard.

Finally, says Lewis, keep in mind whether you plan to age in place. “More Americans are looking for homes that will allow them to stay independent and living on their own throughout their retirement years,” he says. “If that’s your plan, look for home features that will help facilitate that, like wider doors, few or no exterior stairs, and good lighting.”

Source: Brandpoint

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THE GOOD LIFE

Sunday, April 23, 2017 | 15

PLANNING AHEAD to meet charitable goals want. A few giving options include:

ELIZABETH HACKBARTH

Director of Development Community Foundation of Northeast Iowa ‌

‌When meeting your goals in life, planning is key. We make career plans to reach achievements, we try to plan the best life for our family, and we plan for our retirement. These are all important plans, but with a little preparation, you can make a big impact on your community and the causes you care about and meet your charitable goals.

Think about what matters to you. Have you considered how you could create an impact on what matters most? Of course, we care about the needs of our loved ones but think about your love of community, maybe you love your local library or the park you visit with your grandkids, or maybe it’s a nonprofit organization doing meaningful work impacting local issues close to your heart.

When working with your professional advisor, such as an attorney or financial planner, to meet your financial goals, having this type of conversation can pave the way for a plan that meets both your personal and charitable goals. And, by working with the Community Foundation of Northeast Iowa, you can create a financial roadmap that supports your charitable interests forever.

These conversations are more important for our Iowa communities than ever before. An unprecedented transfer of wealth is occurring. Over a span of 50 years, over $530 billion is expected to pass from one generation to the next in Iowa. In many cases, this transfer takes wealth out of communities generations of families have nurtured and supported.

IRA charitable rollover

The IRA charitable rollover is a great giving option that allows individuals age 70½ and older to make direct transfers of up to $100,000 per year to qualified charities, like the Community Foundation. Individuals do not have to count the transferred dollars as income for federal income tax purposes and transfers can serve as the required minimum distribution.

Will designations

Elizabeth Hackbarth However, this historic transfer presents an incredible opportunity to keep part of this wealth in our communities. If only 5 percent was set aside to create charitable endowments, hundreds of millions of dollars every year would make a tremendous impact on local projects and priorities.

Charitable giving is not just for the wealthy. With a little planning, anyone can make gifts that impact their community forever, take advantage of tax benefits, and preserve financial security for themselves and loved ones.

Working with a community foundation during your lifetime, or establishing a planned gift, to create an endowed fund that supports the community and charitable causes you love keeps wealth local, and the gift keeps giving, forever. There are many ways to accomplish this goal, and the Community Foundation can work with you and your professional advisor to create an individualized plan that delivers the results you

Naming the Community Foundation as a beneficiary in your Will is a simple way to make a lasting gift to your community. You can leave a gift to an existing fund or create your own.

You’re not just a patient. you’re a grandparent.

Cash

A cash gift is the easiest way to start a fund or make a gift to an existing fund. Cash gifts are fully deductible up to 50 percent of the donor’s adjusted gross income in any one year.

Additionally, gifts to qualified permanent endowment funds with an accredited community foundation like the Community Foundation of Northeast Iowa can take advantage of the Endow Iowa 25 percent state tax credit.

Column author, Elizabeth Hackbarth, is director of development at the Community Foundation of Northeast Iowa. The Foundation manages over $93 million in assets and has granted over $80 million to organizations since 1956. Contact: ehackbarth@cfneia.org or (319) 243-1352.

CARING FOR YOUR FAMILY ME ANS YOU CAN ENjOY YOUR GR ANdChILdREN. If you’re a grandparent, you want to be able to enjoy your grandchildren to the fullest! At Covenant Clinic, we’re here to take care of you. It’s important to get regular checkups to screen for potential health risks and stay on track so you can enjoy these years.

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16 | Sunday, April 23, 2017

THE GOOD LIFE

Time to

step up

Long-time volunteer urges other boomers to use their gifts MELODY PARKER

melody.parker@wcfcourier.com ‌

‌On a recent Friday morning, Bill Colwell took a morning away his busy Ford dealership in Hudson to lend some muscle to help Cedar Valley Hospice set up for their recent Emily West concert fundraiser.

“I get a lot of satisfaction from volunteering for this organization. They do such a great job.

They’re compassionate people, and they truly care about others, and the more I work with them, the more I realize that, and it’s true in everything they do,” says Colwell, a longtime Cedar Valley Hospice volunteer and member of the Volunteer Board.

Even something as seemingly simple as arranging chairs and decorations at the Hilton Garden Inn in Cedar Falls, is a boon for hospice.

CV Hospice Development Director Chris Olds says, “He is a true working volunteer and a joy.

He knows the value our fundrais-

ing and our services and never hesitates to be hands-on and in the front lines working hard.”

As a business professional, Colwell became familiar with the program years ago while sponsoring golf tournaments as fundraisers for area organizations. “We gave the money to charities, and hospice was one of the charities. I got to know the people there, and they sent out people to help us on golf tournament day.”

It wasn’t long before he was invited to volunteer with hospice — “and at some point, somehow ended up on the board of direc-

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He was further inspired by the compassion, care and kindness shown his family when hospice cared for his father, Bill Sr. “And they do this every day. It’s pretty amazing, and this organization has meant a lot to me. They’re a special organization.”

Bill Colwell Ford is well-known

in the Cedar Valley for the dealership’s philanthropic support for such organizations as Hudson Athletic Booster Club, March of Dimes, Give 2 the Troops, Beyond Pink TEAM and the Northeast Iowa Food Bank, in addition to Cedar Valley Hospice.

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THE GOOD LIFE

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Sunday, April 23, 2017 | 17

Investigate personal SS account during

FINANCIAL LITERACY MONTH JERRY NELSON

Waterloo Office Manager Social Security Administration ‌

‌April is Financial Literacy Month, and there’s no better time than right now to save for your future. The earlier you start saving, the more you can take advantage of compound interest — that’s like “free money” to power up your 401ks and other types of IRAs. Social Security helps secure your future, but it should only be a foundation for a more complete retirement plan.

Part of financial literacy is having access to not just correct information, but your own personal financial information. Social Security has that. You can open your own personal my Social Security account at www∙socialsecurity∙gov/myaccount and within a

matter of minutes have access to your information from the comfort of your home or office. There, you can do many things, but the most important thing is to view your Social Security Statement.

Your Social Security Statement is a concise, easy-to-read personal record of the earnings on which you have paid Social Security taxes and a summary of the estimated benefits you and your family could receive, including potential retirement, disability, and survivors benefits. Once you have an account, you can view your statement at any time. You’ll want to verify that your recorded earnings are correct because your future benefits are based on your recorded earnings.

In addition to using your personal my Social Security account, you can

SHUTTERSTOCK PHOTO‌

also prepare for a secure, comfortable retirement by visiting www.myra.gov.

There, you’ll find myRA, a new retirement savings option from the Department of the Treasury for the millions of Americans who face barriers to saving for retirement. myRA is a simple, se-

cure, and affordable way to help you take control of your future. It’s free and you have zero risk of losing money.

We also offer the online Retirement Estimator at www∙socialsecurity∙gov/ estimator that provides immediate and personalized benefit estimates based on your earnings record. And, best of all, the Retirement Estimator is an interactive tool that allows you to compare different retirement options like future earnings and different retirement ages.

One sure way to stay on top of your financial future is to join the more than 28 million people who have opened their own my Social Security account at www∙socialsecurity∙gov/myaccount.

The sooner you start planning for retirement the better off you will be.

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18 | Sunday, April 23, 2017

THE GOOD LIFE

When to start receiving Social Security retirement benefits JERRY NELSON

Waterloo Office Manager Social Security Administration ‌

‌Enjoying a comfortable retirement is everyone’s dream. For over 80 years, Social Security has been helping people realize those dreams, assisting people

through life’s journey with a variety of benefits. It’s up to you as to when you can start retirement benefits. You could start them a little earlier or wait until your “full retirement age.” There are benefits to either decision, pun intended.

Full retirement age refers to the age when a person can receive their Social Security benefits without any reduction, even if they are still working part or full time. In other words, you don’t actually need to stop working to get your full benefits.

For people who attain age 62 in 2017 (i.e., those born between January 2, 1955 and January 1, 1956), full retirement age is 66 and two months. Full retirement age was age 65 for many years.

However, due to a law passed

by Congress in 1983, it has been gradually increasing, beginning with people born in 1938 or later, until it reaches 67 for people born after 1959.

You can learn more about the full retirement age and find out how to look up your own at www. socialsecurity.gov/planners/retire/retirechart.html.

You can start receiving Social Security benefits as early as age 62 or any time after that. The longer you wait, the higher your monthly benefit will be, although it stops increasing at age 70. Your

monthly benefits will be reduced permanently if you start them any time before your full retirement age. For example, if you start receiving benefits in 2017 at age 62, your monthly benefit amount will be reduced permanently by about 26 percent.

On the other hand, if you wait to start receiving your benefits until after your full retirement age, then your monthly benefit will be higher. The amount of this increase is two-thirds of one percent for each month — or eight percent for each year — that you delay receiving them until you reach age 70. The choices you make may affect any benefit your spouse or children can receive on your record, too. If you receive benefits early, it may reduce their potential benefit, as well as yours.

You need to be as informed as possible when making any decision about receiving Social Security benefits. Read the publication When to Start Receiving Retirement Benefits at www.

socialsecurity.gov/pubs/EN05-10147.pdf.

If you decide to receive benefits before you reach full retirement age, you should also understand how continuing to work can affect your benefits. Social Security may withhold or reduce your benefits if your annual earnings exceed a certain amount. However, for every month benefits are withheld, it increases your future benefits. That’s because at your full retirement age Social Security will recalculate your benefit amount to give you credit for the months in which benefits were reduced or withheld due to your excess earnings. In effect, it’s as if you hadn’t filed for those months. You can learn more at www.socialsecurity.gov/planners/retire/whileworking.html.

Social Security’s mission is to secure your today and tomorrow.

Helping you make the right retirement decisions is vital. You can learn more by visiting our Retirement Planner at www.socialsecurity.gov/planners/retire.

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THE GOOD LIFE

Sunday, April 23, 2017 | 19

3 reasons to review beneficiaries Baby boomers have been ‌ planning and saving for retirement for decades. They are also planning their legacy — creating wills, trusts and other sophisticated estate planning strategies to transfer their wealth to the next generation.

However, most people may not realize their IRAs and qualified retirement plans — a large part of their estate — are not subject to probate nor affected by the terms of a person’s will. These assets will pass to the next generation determined solely by the client’s beneficiary designation form. Accordingly, the beneficiary designation form is one of your client’s most important estate planning documents but it is often overlooked when creating a legacy plan.

Here are some common beneficiary designation mistakes to avoid:

1. Estate as a beneficiary

Many clients unintentionally name their estate as beneficiary of their retirement accounts.

Some clients will actually direct their retirement assets to be paid “pursuant to the terms of my will.” Other clients simply fail to complete their beneficiary designation form or forget to name a new beneficiary after a beneficiary dies. When this happens, the assets are usually paid to the client’s estate by default, which is probably the worst beneficiary for IRAs and retirement plans.

Volunteer From 16

Colwell says his favorite hospice fundraiser is the early fall butterfly release. “People can purchase a butterfly to memorialize a loved one or to remember someone. It’s a really neat event, releasing all those butterflies and to see how much it means to people. We’ve been doing that event for the last five years, and 1,200 to 1,400

IRAs and qualified retirement plans — assets that normally avoid probate — will become subject to probate when paid to the estate.

The probate process can be long, cumbersome and expensive. Further, these assets may have to be liquidated and paid to the estate within five years after the client’s death. While individual beneficiaries can elect to have IRA assets paid over their lifetime, thereby “stretching” their tax liability over many years, estates cannot.

Finally, estates are subject to a much higher income tax rate than individuals. This can result in more money going to the IRS than necessary. To avoid this mistake, make sure your clients have an up-to-date primary and contingent beneficiary designated for all their retirement accounts.

2. Trust as a beneficiary

the trust and “stretch” the IRA to the trust over the life expectancy of the oldest trust beneficiary. Trusts that fail to be a “look through” trust include those that have beneficiaries that are not individuals, such a charity, estate or another trust.

Second, it can be expensive to establish and maintain these trusts. If an IRA is “stretched” to a “look through” trust, a lifetime of legal, trustee and administrative fees can significantly reduce the amount the ultimate beneficiaries will receive.

Third, trusts become subject to the 39.6 percent tax rate (currently the highest) as soon as the income exceeds $12,400. By comparison, married taxpayers filing jointly do not reach the 39.6 percent tax rate until their income exceeds $366,950. That means if the IRA is worth more than $12,400, more than a third can be lost to the IRS. Unless there is a compelling non-tax reason to name a trust as beneficiary of an IRA or retirement plan, you should help your clients avoid making a costly mistake. Encourage your client to speak with their estate planning attorney about the pros and cons to naming a trust as a beneficiary of a retirement account.

Many attorneys like to use trusts to facilitate an effective transfer of wealth and maximize all available gift, estate and generation skipping tax exemptions.

However, there are several dangers to having retirement assets paid to a trust.

First, the IRS generally requires the assets to be paid to the trust within five years after the death of the client. The “stretch” rules generally do not apply to trusts 3. Ex-spouse as a unless the trust is drafted to be a beneficiary “look through” trust. If the trust is a “look through” trust, the IRS Few people really intend to permits you to “look through” leave IRA and retirement assets

people are there. You can see how meaningful it is to all those people,” he explains.

As both a businessman and member of the community, Colwell recognizes the impact volunteering can have. “These organizations can’t run without volunteers, without manpower. Whether it’s an organization who provides care or a service, what they do is heavily reliant on volunteers. They need that support for all they do.

“And it’s important to give

back. It’s nice to find something that isn’t just the daily grind that helps out other people, that means something,” he explains.

He encourages other Boomers to take the time to volunteer.

“Find out where you fit, what gifts you have, what you’re interested in. The first step is making the decision to do it. Then figure out where. There are churches and volunteer organizations that can direct you to all kind of opportunities to get involved,” Colwell adds.

to an ex-spouse, but this happens all the time.

People fail to update their beneficiary designation form after a divorce. Often, they are under the mistaken belief the divorce

decree will automatically negate their prior beneficiary designations. Divorce decrees, court orders and wills generally have no affect on a beneficiary designation.

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20 | Sunday, April 23, 2017

THE GOOD LIFE

The view from Prairie Wind looks good.

Phyllis Steele can’t wait to make her move to the third floor of Western Home Communities’ newest independent living community, opening in June on Caraway Lane, off Prairie Parkway in Cedar Falls.

She plans to spend a lot of outdoor time on her private balcony, soaking in the sunrises and enjoying the view.

She expects plenty else to do in the attached Jorgensen Plaza for Well-Being, with a walking track, swimming pool, salon spa, store, personal IT support, restaurant serving three meals daily and an events center that will host weekly worship, concerts, dances, parties and more.

With someone else cleaning, cooking and doing some laundry for her, Phyllis will have even more time to enjoy all that Prairie Wind offers.

Don’t delay! Nearly 3/4 reserved.

To see Prairie Wind, call Maria today at (319) 242-5742.

www.WesternHomeCommunities.org/PrairieWind